Name: Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 oz penne or ziti pasta; 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped; 3 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed or blanched; 2 ½ cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought); 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

I’ve made a lot of pasta bakes in my kitchen, but this Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is the one I find myself coming back to again and again. It’s everything you could want in a cozy dinner—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, yet still balanced with plenty of vibrant broccoli and lean chicken breast. When I first served it at a casual family dinner, everyone went back for seconds before I even had the chance to sit down. That’s when I knew this one was a keeper.

What I love most is how easily it comes together. A handful of everyday ingredients, one comforting Alfredo sauce, and a quick oven bake transform into a golden-topped, bubbling masterpiece. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or you’re cooking for a crowd, this recipe fits right in with its hearty goodness and familiar flavors. Let’s dive in—you’re going to love making this just as much as eating it.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Creamy & Satisfying: Every bite is rich with Alfredo sauce and gooey melted cheese.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike devour it with no fuss.
Balanced Comfort: Combines protein, vegetables, and carbs in one easy dish.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it ahead of time and bake when you’re ready.
Perfect for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully and tastes just as good the next day.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake?

When I make this bake, I almost always reach for penne or ziti. Their tubular shape holds onto the creamy Alfredo sauce like a dream, and they bake up perfectly tender without turning mushy. That said, rigatoni, fusilli, or even rotini are all great alternatives if that’s what you have on hand. Just avoid delicate noodles like angel hair or flat pasta like lasagna sheets—they don’t give you the same hearty texture or sauce-hugging capability.

Options for Substitutions

One of the great things about this recipe is how adaptable it is:

Chicken: Swap with shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience, or use cooked turkey for a fun twist.
Broccoli: Cauliflower or spinach makes a great stand-in, especially if you’re looking to switch up the greens.
Alfredo Sauce: Use homemade or store-bought. You can also mix in a little cream cheese for extra richness.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic, but feel free to mix in provolone, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
Gluten-Free: Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and make sure your Alfredo sauce is compliant.
Dairy-Free: There are some great dairy-free Alfredo sauces and vegan mozzarella-style shreds out there—just adjust baking time slightly.

Ingredients for This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Pasta (Penne or Ziti)
The base of the dish—its shape traps the creamy Alfredo beautifully and holds up well to baking.
Cooked Chicken Breast
Adds lean protein and turns the pasta bake into a hearty, satisfying meal.
Fresh Broccoli Florets
Brightens the dish with color and texture while boosting the nutritional value.
Alfredo Sauce
The creamy backbone of the recipe, coating every bite with rich, velvety flavor.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
Melts into a gooey blanket on top and throughout the pasta, giving that irresistible cheesy pull.
Parmesan Cheese
Adds depth, saltiness, and that signature Alfredo tang—it’s a must for flavor balance.
Garlic (Minced)
Gives the sauce a warm, savory kick that makes everything taste homemade.
Olive Oil or Butter
Used to sauté the garlic and lightly cook the broccoli before baking.
Salt and Black Pepper
Simple seasonings to elevate all the other ingredients and keep the flavor balanced.
Chopped Parsley (Optional)
A fresh garnish that adds color and a subtle herby lift to the finished dish.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta in well-salted water until just al dente—about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside. It will continue cooking in the oven, so you don’t want it too soft.

Step 2: Steam or Blanch the Broccoli

Quickly steam or blanch the broccoli florets until bright green and just tender—about 2-3 minutes. Drain and run under cold water to stop the cooking. This keeps them vibrant and prevents mushiness.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.

Step 4: Combine the Sauce

Add the Alfredo sauce to the skillet with the garlic. Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to warm through and meld the flavors.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

In a large mixing bowl (or the same skillet if it’s oven-safe), toss together the cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli, and Alfredo sauce until everything is well-coated.

Step 6: Transfer and Top

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the top generously with mozzarella cheese and the remaining Parmesan.

Step 7: Bake

Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

How Long to Cook the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Once assembled, the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake should be baked at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbling, with golden-brown spots across the top. If you’ve prepped it ahead and it’s coming straight from the fridge, add an extra 5–10 minutes of baking time and cover with foil for the first half to prevent over-browning.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Undercook the pasta slightly before baking so it doesn’t turn mushy in the oven.
Use freshly grated cheese when possible—it melts smoother and gives better flavor than pre-shredded blends.
Don’t skip seasoning the sauce—a pinch of salt and pepper makes all the difference.
Balance the sauce-to-pasta ratio—too little sauce, and it’ll dry out; too much, and it turns soupy.
Add a layer of foil over the bake if it’s browning too fast before the center is heated through.
Use an oven-safe skillet if you want to make this a one-pan dish—less cleanup is always a win.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Pasta: Remember, it keeps cooking in the oven. Go for just-al-dente to avoid a mushy texture.
Using Raw Chicken: Always use cooked chicken. This recipe isn’t meant to cook raw meat—it’s about layering flavor, not stressing over doneness.
Skipping the Broccoli Prep: Raw broccoli won’t soften enough during baking. A quick blanch or steam is essential.
Not Tasting the Sauce: Alfredo sauce can vary wildly in saltiness—taste and adjust before mixing everything.
Overloading with Cheese: Yes, cheese is glorious, but too much can make the dish greasy and heavy.
Forgetting to Grease the Baking Dish: A little oil or spray prevents sticking and makes cleanup so much easier.
Not Letting It Rest: Allowing 5 minutes after baking helps everything set and makes slicing easier.

What to Serve With Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake?

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect side to soak up the creamy Alfredo sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Their sweetness and acidity cut through the creaminess beautifully.

Sautéed Spinach or Kale

Lightly sautéed greens add nutrients and a subtle bitter contrast.

A Glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio

A chilled white wine complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it.

Marinated Olives

Serve them as a starter for a briny, savory contrast.

Homemade Tomato Soup

Yes, soup! A tangy tomato base pairs surprisingly well with cheesy pasta dishes.

Crispy Roasted Potatoes

For a double-carb delight, roasted potatoes with herbs and garlic are always welcome.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers of this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake store beautifully, making it an excellent meal-prep option. Here’s how to handle them:

Refrigerate: Let the bake cool completely, then cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: You can freeze individual portions or the whole bake. Wrap tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until hot—about 15–20 minutes. For quick reheating, microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes, adding a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx. 1/6 of the Bake)

Calories: 520
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 650mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g

Note: Nutritional values will vary depending on the brand of Alfredo sauce and exact ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of chicken should I use?

Cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast works best, but you can also use thighs or even rotisserie chicken for extra convenience and flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the entire bake, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 5–10 minutes to the cook time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it well first. Excess moisture can make the bake watery.

Can I use a different sauce?

Of course! While Alfredo is classic, you can switch it up with a garlic cream sauce, a light pesto cream, or even a tomato-based blush sauce for a different spin.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use a light Alfredo sauce, reduce the cheese slightly, and swap in whole wheat or high-protein pasta. You can also bulk up on broccoli for a more veggie-heavy version.

How do I keep the bake from drying out?

Make sure there’s enough sauce to coat all the ingredients, and don’t overbake. Covering with foil halfway through can also help lock in moisture.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Mushrooms, peas, or spinach mix in well and add color and nutrients without overpowering the flavor.

What size baking dish should I use?

A standard 9×13-inch baking dish is perfect. If you halve the recipe, an 8×8-inch dish will do the trick.

Conclusion

This Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake brings together the best of comfort food and nourishing ingredients. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor—yet balanced with greens and lean protein. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner idea, an easy weeknight recipe, or a satisfying meal prep option, this dish fits the bill perfectly. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s earned a regular spot in my dinner rotation. Now it’s your turn—get baking and enjoy every creamy, cheesy forkful.